Create a No-Waste Quilt using 2-for-1 Blocks

Hi Friends! Today I want to introduce you to a technique I call 2-for-1 blocks. It is a method for cutting applique blocks in a way that allows you to use the cut-out shape AND the remaining fabric around the shape to make a quilt with very little waste. This can be done with any shape, but today I'm using Halloween shapes from my Li'l Spooks Pattern.

L'il Spooks Example Throw Quilt

For complete pattern details and shapes for the Li'l Spooks pattern click here:

https://www.polkadotpeep.com/product-page/little-spooks-quilt-pattern-applique-quilt-2-for-1-pattern

OR Download the Pattern Update Page (for my Maker Conference friends):

Little Spooks Quilt Pattern Update.pdf

Download PDF • 51KB

1) Cutting Out the Applique Pieces

This kind of pattern is very customizable with lots of choices to make it your own:

• the size of blocks you want to make,

• the project you want to make,

• the number of blocks to make,

• the shape(s) to use, and

• the fabric of course!

When you have your supplies then you will cut out one shape in the center of each square of your focus fabrics. Focus fabrics are the colored and patterned fabrics you choose vs. the background fabric.

You can cut out pieces with scissors, however, I recommend using a digital template (SVG cut file) and a cutting machine like Cricut, Silhouette, or Brother Scan n'Cut. This method is great for precision, speed, and easiness on your hands if you suffer from arthritis, carpal tunnel, or other arm/hand issues.

**TIP - make sure that if you change template sizes that you don't make the details too small. Ideally the templates work best for 6"-18" squares of fabric. It is easier to stitch bigger pieces and make your project quickly.

**TIP - When prepping your fabric, use fusible on the focus fabric when cutting more complex or detailed shapes. You may have to mirror the image when using with cutting machines.

2) Stitching Tips for Applique

When stitching 2-for-1 quilt blocks, you will applique the cut-outs onto the center of a background squares in a matching position to the frame or tilted or turned. Applique it at the edge of the shape using your favorite stitch - blanket, zigzag, straight, or other decorative stitch. When using a straight stitch, stitch at least 1/8" from the edge of the shape. Also, I stitched around the shape twice. This will result in a more textured finish as it will fray slightly with each washing.

You will repeat this process when you stitch the frames onto other background squares. Use the same stitch or a different stitch to secure the shape edge to the background fabric. It is fine to follow the shape lines when crossing over spaces in the fabric. If you use any of the wider stitch options (where the needle moves side-to-side) like zigzag, try to keep the edge of the fabric centered so that your needle goes through both the background fabric and the focus fabric.

**TIP - If you don't use fusible on the shape, you can use a dab of fabric glue or a regular glue stick to keep the pieces in place on the background while you stitch.

3) Personalize Your Applique Project Even More

In the L'il Spooks Pattern, the layout ideas are pretty standard - straight, horizontal rows - but you actually have the opportunity to layout the blocks as you wish. Turn them on point or tilt them by adding fabric or mix the applique blocks with some of your other favorite blocks - 9-patch, flying geese, half-square triangles, or other pieced blocks.

Example of applique blocks with other blocks

My goal as quilter and a pattern writer is to spread love and inspire creativity. Shape templates can also be used with paper or felt or changed in size for other fun projects. Follow me on Facebook or Instagram @polkadotpeepquiltsetc if you want to see make some more fun things!

I hope you have fun creating beautiful projects with this technique! Tag me so I can see with #littlespooks or email or share to my social media.

Until next time...be blessed!

Tara

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